Hamilton voices burned bridge fear over Mercedes F1 exit

Lewis Hamilton has voiced concern over burning his bridges at Mercedes by opting to leave the team.

Prior to the start of the campaign, Hamilton informed Mercedes he would depart the squad and switch to Ferrari in 2025.

Hamilton has been part of the Mercedes F1 set-up since 2013, which stands as the most successful driver-team pairing in the sport's history.

The seven-time world champion has just two races left for the Brackley-based squad ahead of his jump to Ferrari.

Hamilton pointed to other racing legends who were honoured long after ending their association with the team.

“What I've always said about Mercedes, is that it really is a family,” he told media including RacingNews365. 

“I've always said it was one of the hardest parts of the decision was, when you are at Mercedes, you're a part of the family forever. 

“If you look at the past drivers up until their 80s, until their deathbed, they are a part of the team. 

“They include you and honour you for life.” 

Hamilton admitted he feared he would squash the legacy he has built at Mercedes - but expressed confidence it will not be the case.

“That was always a worry in the decision, that everything we built ends.

“In my mind, I don't think that's the case, I'll always be a part of Mercedes' history. 

“In the future, I'll always be able to come back and see the museum and know that I was a part of the history of this brand.

“We've all worked so hard. We've been through so much together. It's hopefully not a burning of a bridge. I think the bridge is solidified and it will last the test of time.”